Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits: A Taste of Nostalgia

There are certain flavors that transport you back in time, conjuring up warmth, laughter, and the comforting embrace of family. For me, Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits are precisely that. I can still vividly recall Aunt Ruby’s kitchen, a bustling hub of delicious aromas, as she’d pull trays of these golden, savory delights from her oven. The very first time I tasted one, it was a revelation – a perfect balance of rich cheese, buttery crispness, and a subtle peppery kick that made you reach for another, and then another. She always insisted on using extra-sharp cheddar, and that sharp, nutty quality is what truly elevates these simple morsels from mere crackers to something truly special.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Varies (yields approximately 100 tidbits)
• Yield: Approx. 100 wafers
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 cups plain flour
• 2 cups Rice Krispies

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
• Baking sheets
• Spatula or spoon for mixing
• Fork for shaping
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This moderate temperature is key to achieving a golden crisp without burning. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper if desired, though it’s not strictly necessary for this recipe.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and the grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese. You want this mixture to be smooth and well-combined, like a rich, cheesy frosting. An electric mixer is ideal for this, ensuring an even texture.
3. Next, add the salt and cayenne pepper to the butter and cheese mixture. These seasonings are crucial for building the savory profile of the tidbits.
4. Gradually incorporate the plain flour into the wet ingredients. You can start mixing this with your electric mixer on a low speed. Mix only until just combined; overmixing the flour can develop gluten and lead to tougher tidbits.
5. Now, it’s time to work in the Rice Krispies. You can do this either with your electric mixer on its lowest setting, or by hand using a sturdy spatula or spoon. The goal is to evenly distribute the Rice Krispies throughout the dough without crushing them too much, as their crisp texture is essential.
6. To form the tidbits, take small portions of the dough, about the size of an olive, and roll them into little balls between your palms. Place these balls onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one as they will spread slightly.
7. Using a fork, gently flatten each ball. Press the tines of the fork into the dough and then pull it across, creating a crosshatch pattern or little ridges. This not only adds a rustic visual appeal but also helps them bake more evenly. If the dough starts to stick to the fork, dip the fork in a little flour to prevent sticking; keep the fork clean by dipping in flour, if necessary.
8. Bake the tidbits in your preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color around the edges and a firm texture.
9. Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the Cheese Tidbits cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up and achieve their signature crispness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Quality Matters: Aunt Ruby was adamant about using extra-sharp cheddar. The tang and depth of flavor from a good quality sharp cheddar are irreplaceable. If you can’t find extra-sharp, a good quality sharp cheddar will work, but avoid mild cheddar as it lacks the necessary punch.
• Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. This makes it easier to cream with the cheese and creates a better dough consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Once the flour is added, mix only until it’s just incorporated. Overworking the dough can result in a tougher texture.
• The Fork Technique: The fork-ridged pattern isn’t just for show; it helps the tidbits bake more evenly. Experiment with different fork patterns for variety!
• Batch Baking: If you’re making a large batch, allow the baking sheets to cool slightly between uses. This ensures the dough balls hit a hot surface and start baking immediately.
• Even Sizing: For consistent baking, try to make your tidbit balls as uniform in size as possible.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits are wonderfully versatile. They are fantastic served on their own as a sophisticated snack or appetizer, perhaps alongside a cheese board. Their savory crunch also makes them an excellent accompaniment to soups and salads, adding a delightful texture. For a more festive presentation, arrange them artfully on a platter with some grapes or a dollop of your favorite chutney.

When it comes to storage, these tidbits are best kept in an airtight container at room temperature. They tend to maintain their crispness for up to a week. If they do soften slightly, you can briefly crisp them up in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for a few minutes. Avoid refrigerating them as the moisture can make them soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	35.5 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	2.5 g	3%
Saturated Fat	1.6 g	7%
Cholesterol	7 mg	2%
Sodium	49.1 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	2.4 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	0.1 g	0%
Protein	0.8 g	1%

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic recipe is hard to beat, there’s always room for a little culinary creativity!

• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough.
• Herbaceous Notes: Stir in a tablespoon or two of finely chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or even a touch of rosemary along with the Rice Krispies.
• Different Cheeses: While cheddar is king here, you could experiment with other hard, flavorful cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyère, or a sharp Provolone. Just ensure they are finely grated.
• Seed Inclusion: For added texture and flavor, a tablespoon or two of sesame seeds or poppy seeds can be mixed into the dough.

FAQs

Q: Why are my Cheese Tidbits not crispy?
A: This could be due to a few reasons: your oven temperature might have been too low, they may not have baked for long enough, or they might have been stored improperly in an airtight container before they were completely cool. Ensure they are baked to a golden brown and cooled thoroughly before storing.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These tidbits are perfect for making ahead as they store well at room temperature. Bake them a day or two before your event.

Q: My dough is too sticky to form balls, what should I do?
A: If the dough is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to handle. You can also lightly flour your hands when rolling the balls.

Q: How long do these tidbits typically last?
A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits will stay crisp and delicious for about a week.

Q: Can I freeze Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits?
A: While not ideal for maintaining crispness, you can freeze them. Ensure they are completely cooled, then store them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature and consider a quick crisping in the oven if they lose some texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s a quiet magic in recipes that have been passed down through generations, a testament to the enduring power of food to connect us to our past and to each other. Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits are more than just a snack; they are a delicious piece of my family’s history, a reminder of cherished moments and the simple joy of sharing good food. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, embrace the straightforward process, and experience the delightful crunch and savory flavor that has made these tidbits a beloved favorite for so long. I’d be thrilled to hear about your own experiences with them – perhaps you’ll even find a new favorite in their golden, cheesy goodness. Enjoy!